Gallery: All-new Hyundai Elantra previewed – to be launched in the coming weeks!



Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has invited us over for a brief preview of the all-new Hyundai Elantra, giving us a closer look at the somewhat controversial design of the brand’s latest C-segment sedan. If you’ve had any reservations on its styling previously, all we can tell you is that – it really does look better in person!

The main reason for the controversy is its new “Sensuous Sportiness” design language, and more specifically, the “Parametric Jewels” motif on this particular model. According to Hyundai, the former refers to the overall “dynamism” of the design (à la fastback coupe-like roofline) while the latter, as the name suggests, points to the use of geometric shapes in its styling.

Most people were thrown off by the sharp angular lines throughout the design of the all-new Hyundai Elantra, but we must say that it’s less jarring when seen under normal lighting conditions in person. Take for example the Z-shaped character lines on the sides – while in the press photos looked out of place, actually adds an interesting texture to the sides without being too brash.

We particularly like the attention to details in the exterior styling, such as the slit in the daytime-running lights to form an unbroken line from the bonnet shut lines all the way down to the fenders. The use of the smoked-chrome finish on the grille and bumper trims also adds an interesting accent element to the Hyundai Elantra, making it really stand out from the fairly crowded C-segment sedan market.

Moving inside, the first thing that jumps out to you is just how high quality the interior looks and feels. The “Immersive Cocoon” design does well to separate the spaces between the driver and passenger, with a strut running down the passenger side of the centre console dividing the front to a “fighter jet” cockpit and a passenger compartment.

A horizontal trim piece that runs the entire length of the dashboard from door to door cleanly hides away the unsightly air vents. Right above that, you’ll find an eight-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and beside that a 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster.

HSDM also revealed during the media preview session that the all-new Hyundai Elantra will be equipped with ventilated and heated seats (powered driver seats), which comes with a Smart Temperature Comfort Control system which ties in the heating and ventilation functions into the dual-zone climate control system (with rear vents).

Other comfort amenities include an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function, a smart boot opening feature which automatically opens the boot lid when the keys are detected in the vicinity (without needing to wave your foot underneath the car), as well as a tyre pressure monitoring system.

The big ticket item on the all-new Hyundai Elantra though, is the inclusion of the full Hyundai SmartSense advance driver assistance suite. The generously-equipped suite includes autonomous emergency braking for forward collisions (vehicle, pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming traffic at junctions), rear-cross traffic alert with avoidance assist, Blind-spot Collision Warning with Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist and Lane Following Assist, driver attention warning, as well as Smart Cruise Control with stop and go function, which essentially functions as a level two autonomous driving system.

Turn indicators neatly tucked away within the grille, hidden from sight until turned on.

The all-new Hyundai Elantra will only be offered in one variant here in Malaysia, powered by the brand’s latest 1.6-litre SmartStream engine. The naturally-aspirated mill makes 123 hp and 154 Nm of torque, with power sent to the front wheels via Hyundai’s own Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) gearbox which uses a tensioned chain belt system instead of the push belts usually seen on regular CVTs.

Hyundai says that the change not only improves response and “reproduces the manual transmission’s shifting pattern”, but also reduces engine power loss (5-8%), at the same time improving fuel economy (4.2%).

The all-new Hyundai Elantra will be available in four exterior colour options – Polar White, Electric Shadow, Amazon Grey, and Intense Blue, while on the inside, buyers can choose between black or light grey upholstery.

No pricing information has been disclosed yet aside from the “RM1XX,888” estimated price – HSDM says that exact pricing for the all-new Hyundai Elantra will only be revealed at launch, which should be happening within the month of December. For now, interested customers can place a booking at RM777 through HSDM’s website or at any authorised Hyundai dealerships nationwide.


GALLERY